Opposition proposes Prince Edward Island Infrastructure Summit

CHARLOTTETOWN
–The Official Opposition is proposing
that the province hold an Infrastructure Summit to identify key priorities in
advance of new federal infrastructure spending being
committed.

“With
the new federal government planning to increase infrastructure spending it’s
important that we make the most of that opportunity here for Prince Edward
Island. That’s why we think that holding an Infrastructure Summit would help
bring communities, trade and environmental groups together to develop a focused
plan,” said Opposition Leader Jamie Fox.

The
Official Opposition has tabled a motion, moved by Rustico-Emerald MLA Brad
Trivers and Belfast-Murray River MLA Darlene Compton, proposing that the
province convene an Infrastructure Summit at the earliest opportunity to ensure
that Prince Edward Island has a solid plan to get the most long-term economic
and environmental benefit from any additional infrastructure
spending.

“Holding
an Infrastructure Summit would be a proactive approach to planning that is open,
transparent and collaborative,” said Rustico-Emerald MLA and Opposition
Environment Critic Brad Trivers. ”We think this Summit would help focus
attention on projects that could have long-lasting environmental and economic
benefit.”

The
Opposition feels that the fact that details of the new federal infrastructure
funding have yet to be confirmed is actually an advantage for the
province.

“If
we move now to hold an Infrastructure Summit before the federal funding comes
online it gives us all a chance to take a prudent approach that is fiscally and
environmentally sustainable to get the best bang for the buck,” said
Belfast-Murray River MLA and Opposition Finance Critic Darlene
Compton.